New rules for using deposits and drilling wells

Strategic mineral deposits will be provided for use under production sharing agreements.

Resolution No. 132 of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine entered into force, which approved the list of subsoil areas (mineral deposits) that are of strategic importance for the sustainable development of the economy and defense capabilities of the state, which will be made available for use through tenders for the conclusion of production sharing agreements.

Another innovation is draft law No. 9020, registered in the Verkhovna Rada, which provides for the introduction of mandatory licensing of drilling activities and the use of wells for the extraction of groundwater.

The duty to issue licenses will be assigned to the central executive body, which implements state policy in the field of geological study and rational use of subsoil.

In addition, the draft Law No. 9021 has been registered in the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, which proposes to establish administrative liability for illegal drilling and use of wells for the extraction of groundwater - fines of up to four thousand tax-free minimum incomes of citizens.